H.C.R. NO. 35 - Summary

• Encourages the Department of Public Safety to continue and expand structured community placement programs for transitioning formerly incarcerated female offenders back into society.

• Notes that incarceration costs $127 per day per female inmate compared to $50 per day for structured community placement programs, resulting in potential annual savings of $28,105 per person transferred.

• Identifies that as of November 19, 2012, 706 women were under the care and custody of the Department of Public Safety, with most committed non-violent crimes.

• Recognizes that community-based substance abuse treatment is more effective than in-prison treatment, and that many female offenders have unresolved trauma and addiction issues requiring community support.

• Directs that a certified copy of the resolution be transmitted to the Director of Public Safety.